'LOVE BRINGS US HOME' - Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
Release Date: 09/10/2024
HOW WINTER AWAKENS US
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
This sermon by Rev. Dr. Nicole Kirk reflects on the themes of winter, both as a literal season and a metaphor for the challenging phases of life. Drawing on the symbolism of the winter solstice, the message emphasizes the cyclical nature of life, the importance of introspection, and the quiet preparation for renewal and growth. It concludes with a call to embrace the "winters" of life as opportunities for clarity, healing, and rediscovery, reminding listeners of the enduring hope that spring will come again.
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DEFYING GRAVITY
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
IN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL WICKED, WE FIND A NEW TWIST ON THE OLD CLASSIC, THE WIZARD OF OZ. IT TURNS OUT THE GOOD WITCH IS NOT SO GOOD AFTER ALL AND THE WICKED WITCH, WELL, SHE AIN'T SO BAD. IN THIS DELIGHTFUL TALE THE COMPLEXITIES OF WHAT CAUSES ONE PERSON TO BE DEEMED GOOD AND ANOTHER TO BE SEEN AS EVIL IS BROUGHT TO LIFE IN AN UNFORGETTABLE WAY.
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FINDING INNER PEACE
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
REV. MARLIN LAVANHAR EXPLORES THE CONCEPT OF FINDING PEACE AMIDST LIFE'S COMPLEXITIES AND SOCIETAL CHALLENGES THROUGH PERSONAL ANECODOTES, STORES AND PHILOSOPHICAL REFLECTIONS. REV. MARLIN EMPHASIZES THE PURSUIT OF MEANINGFUL ENGAGEMENT WITH THE WORLD RATHER THAN ESCAPISM. HE UNDERSCORES THAT PEACE COMES FROM ALIGNING ONE'S PERSONAL VALUES WITH PURPOSEFUL ACTIONS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE GREATER GOOD.
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INTERDEPENDENCE
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
IN THIS SERMON, REVEREND GERALD SPEAKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERDEPENDENCE-THE IDEA THAT WE ARE ALL INTERCONNECTED AND RELY ON EACH OTHER FOR SUPPORT. HE REFLECTS ON HOW COMMUNITY BUILDING, WHETHER IN CHURCH, IN TIMES OF CRISIS, OR IN EVERYDAY LIFE, IS ESSENTIAL FOR COLLECTIVE STRENGTH AND SALVATION. DRAWING FROM HIS EXPERIENCES, SUCH AS SEEKING HELP DURING A CRISIS AT HIS CHURCH, HE EMPHASIZES THAT INTERDEPENDENCE ISNT JUST ABOUT RELYING ON OTHERS BUT ALSO BEING WILLING TO ASK FOR HELP WHEN NEEDED. REVEREND GERALD STRESSES THAT TRUE COMMUNITY IS BUILT ON MUTUAL RELIANCE, COMPASSION AND...
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"THANKSGIVING FESTIVAL SERVICE"
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
The sermon reflects on the symbolic and spiritual significance of a painting central to the church's identity, portraying its values and heritage. It emphasizes the Unitarian Universalist principles of inclusivity, love, and continuous revelation, drawing connections between faith, American democratic ideals, and the diversity within the community. Through elements like an antique table, books, flowers, and hearts depicted in the painting, the message conveys themes of unity, historical roots, reverence for nature, and ongoing spiritual discovery. The service integrates music, prayer, and...
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"TRIBAL CIVICS LESSONS"
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
In this sermon conversation, the main themes center around understanding tribal nations, citizenship and cultural pluralism within the Muscogee Creek, Osage and Cherokee Nations in Oklahoma. Eli Grayson and Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar discuss how tribal identity transends race, religion and nationality. Being part of a tribe like the Muscogee Creek or Cherokee is a matter of legal and political status, not just ethnicity. The homily recounts significant historical events and the complexities around citizenship within Native American nations. This conversation underscores how these nations...
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"WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?"
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
The message was delivered on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar, Senior Minister. DESCRIPTION Explore the emotional landscape following a transformative election, where ideals of equality and justice are put to the test. Reflect on the enduring struggle for human rights and the essence of American patriotism as a commitment to shared values. Consider the historical movements that have shaped our society and the ongoing need for unity in navigating today's complex political climate. SUBSCRIBE TO AUDIO PODCAST: WATCH THIS...
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'UNCERTAINTY AT THE CROSSROADS' - Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
The message was delivered on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar, Senior Minister. DESCRIPTION: This sermon addresses the pervasive fear and division facing America, especially around elections and major societal shifts. It explores how both personal and societal fears can lead to division and alienation, often exacerbated by media and political rhetoric. By emphasizing the importance of recognizing the light and shadow within both progressive and conservative values, Marlin urges listeners to find...
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'HEAVEN ON EARTH' - Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
The message was delivered on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar, Senior Minister. DESCRIPTION: This service explores the theme of unity in diversity and the role of religion in fostering love and healing in the world. Using the story of the Tower of Babel, Marlin illustrates how the focus of religion should be on creating a heaven-like experience on Earth. Instead of worrying about the afterlife, we are called to address the real "hells" of this world—poverty, injustice, and suffering—by being agents of love, compassion,...
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'A BRIDGE TOO FAR?' - Rev. Randy Lewis
All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK
The message was delivered on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Rev. Randy Lewis, Assistant Minister. DESCRIPTION What if the most absurd conspiracy theory could reveal profound truths about our deepest human needs? In a world where divisions run deep and conversations can feel like battlegrounds, how do we reach across the chasms that separate us? Join us as we uncover surprising insights into why we cling to certain beliefs explore the power of love that stretches beyond comfort zones, and together discover whether the bridges between us are closer...
info_outlineThe message was delivered on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar, Senior Minister.
DESCRIPTION:
In this service, Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar shares the significance of finding a "third place" in life—a space distinct from home and work where individuals can truly be themselves. Marlin emphasizes the value of having a community like All Souls, which serves as a supportive, inclusive space for personal and collective growth. The service draws a parallel between the ancient Greek Agora—a gathering place for diverse people—and modern third places that enhance our well-being. Ultimately, we reflect on the transformative impact of All Souls Unitarian Church in our lives, encouraging openness and hospitality in inviting others to experience the community's supportive environment.
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